Machine Operator

Job Title: Machine Operator

Job Description

This role focuses on operating production machinery in the powders department, including slitter operation, assembly, labeling, quality control, and packaging. You will work as part of a small team to keep equipment running efficiently, perform minor set-ups, and address mechanical issues as needed to support consistent, high-quality manufacturing output.

Responsibilities

• Operate slitter and other production machinery in the powders department according to established procedures and safety guidelines.
• Perform assembly, labeling, and packaging tasks to meet production schedules and quality standards.
• Conduct basic quality control checks on products and materials to ensure they meet specifications.
• Complete minor equipment set-up tasks and adjust machine settings as required for different products or runs.
• Troubleshoot and fix machines as needed to minimize downtime and maintain continuous production.
• Follow written work instructions, production documentation, and basic math calculations related to measurements, counts, and production data.
• Collaborate effectively with team members in groups of 2–3 or 3–4 to coordinate workflow and support a team-oriented production environment.
• Adhere to all safety protocols, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and compliance with facility rules.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area to support a safe and efficient manufacturing environment.
• Be available to work overtime when required based on production volume and business needs.

Essential Skills

• At least 2 years of machine operation experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated ability to operate production machinery safely and efficiently.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to fix machines as needed to resolve basic mechanical issues.
• Ability to read and write clearly to follow work instructions, labels, and production documentation.
• Ability to perform basic math, including measurements, counts, and simple calculations related to production.
• Comfort working in a team-based environment with small groups on the production floor.
• Strong attention to detail for quality control and adherence to production specifications.
• Reliability and willingness to work a consistent first-shift schedule with potential overtime.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous experience in a powders or similar production department is beneficial.
• Experience with slitter operation or similar cutting machinery is an advantage.
• Familiarity with general manufacturing safety practices and PPE usage.
• Ability to adapt to changing production needs and support different tasks such as assembly, labeling, and packaging.
• Strong communication skills for coordinating tasks within a small team environment.

Why Work Here?

You will join a clean, organized manufacturing environment that values teamwork, safety, and reliability. The role offers a stable first-shift schedule with the opportunity for overtime based on production volume, providing additional earning potential. Working in small, supportive teams allows you to build strong working relationships while developing your mechanical and machine operation skills in a well-structured production setting.

Work Environment

The position is based in a clean manufacturing environment where work is performed in teams of 2–3 or 3–4, encouraging collaboration and mutual support. The standard schedule is first shift, Monday through Thursday from 5:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with overtime possible depending on production volume. Dress code consists of jeans or other durable work pants; leggings and sweatpants are not permitted. All required PPE must be worn, including safety glasses, nitrile gloves, and cut-resistant gloves, and you are expected to supply your own steel-toe boots. The environment emphasizes safety, cleanliness, and consistent production processes, with regular use of production machinery and equipment in the powders department.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Ames, IA.

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $20.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Ames,IA.

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 2, 2026.

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.